Resources for Teachers
Mark My Words
The Mark My Words video series can be obtained by downloading the MMW Order Form (pdf)
This professionally-produced series of six videos provides a rich and accessible introduction to the theory and practice of language assessment. It is adaptable to a variety of uses by different audiences, from postgraduate students of Applied Linguistics and TESOL, and trainee second or foreign language teachers, to experienced language teachers who wish to improve their practical skills and theoretical knowledge of assessment. It can complement an existing course in language assessment or form the core around which a course can be built.
The series has been well received both in Australia and abroad, its approach described as a 'radical departure from the traditional ones taken by texts', in presenting real language tests and real language learning contexts. The essential concepts of language assessment are introduced through interviews with leading professionals in the field and illustrated with examples of assessment practice in varied settings, including primary and secondary schools, tertiary institutions and work places.
There are six videos in the series, available in either PAL or NTSC format, each between 20 and 25 minutes in length. They are:
- Video 1 - Language Proficiency Assessment
- Video 2 - Principles of Test Development
- Video 3 - Objective and Subjective Assessment
- Video 4 - Stages of Test Analysis
- Video 5 - Performance Assessment
- Video 6 - Classroom-based Assessment
Each video is accompanied by a booklet which provides an overview of the series and a guide to the use of the videos, as well as support materials specific to the topic covered in that particular video.
Enquiries about the series should be directed to: ltrc-info@unimelb.edu.au. Or contact us to discuss your needs.
Customised Training
The LTRC offers training to develop your skills in language assessment and/or language program evaluation. We run customised courses to suit your needs:
- In-service presentations and seminars
- Short courses
- Evaluation of existing assessment procedures
- Test development workshops
Both experienced and new teachers can benefit from examining their assessment practice or evaluating the effectiveness of their language programs. Whether they are responsible for the development or selection of assessment instruments (such as placement tests, exit tests, formal end-of-course tests), for the on-going assessment of learners within a particular class or level, or for monitoring the success of their language programs , teachers need a firm understanding of theoretical and practical assessment and evaluation issues to inform the decisions they are required to make - decisions which are crucial to the learning outcomes for their students.
The range of courses and consultancies offered by the LTRC allows participants to draw on world-class expertise in developing their assessment and evaluation skills, individually or on an institutional basis. The seminars, workshops and presentations, supported by state-of-the-art audio/visual materials and examples of good testing practice, are designed to help teachers examine the role that assessment and evaluation play in today's language classroom. Through exploration of the principles underlying good assessment practice, you will be guided in the development of your own assessment procedures. By considering different ways of monitoring the day-to-day running of your language program and what your students are gaining from it, you will be able to judge whether the goals set for the language program are being met.
Staff of the LTRC have may years experience, both locally and overseas, of presenting short courses, in-service presentations and consultancies tailored to particular needs.
Please contact us to discuss your training needs.